2003 – Towards toxic free future – stage 2

Published10/09/2003

Funded by:

Problem

The last few decades have seen a dramatic growth in chemicals manufacturing and other human activities that result in the release of toxic pollutants which can pose a serious threat to human health and the environment. Particularly challenging is a group of chemicals known as persistent organic pollutants or POPs. Some of these highly stable compounds are used in agriculture as pesticides. Pesticides usage in Armenia has been always widespread both in agriculture and in public health for malaria control. At the end of 80-ies about 400-500 thousand tones of pesticides, including organochlorine chemicals, were used annually. Widespread using of pesticides led to pollution of soils, water, and agricultural product. Pesticides exposure is one of the most widely studied occupational risk factors.

Goal

The final goal of the project is improvement of environmental safety in Armenia.

Outcome

1. The decision (resolution) on ensuring of pesticide burial safety made by Executive bodies in June 2004 2. Increased awareness among Ararat marz rural community members and governmental officials 3. The collaborative committee of citizens and elected governance is established